TMC Alleges ‘Illegal Detention’ of Bengali Workers in Odisha, Warns of Backlash

A political row broke out on Wednesday after the Trinamool Congress (TMC) accused the Odisha government of “illegally detaining” several Bengali-speaking migrant workers in Jharsuguda district, demanding their immediate release and warning of a larger protest if the issue is not resolved swiftly.

According to the TMC, the workers—allegedly residents of West Bengal—were picked up by local authorities despite possessing valid documents to prove their identity and employment status. The party claimed the detentions were part of a “targeted harassment campaign” against Bengali workers and urged the Odisha BJP-led government to stop the “discriminatory actions.”

“The unlawful detention of Bengali workers is not just a violation of human rights but also an affront to federal values,” said a senior TMC leader at a press conference in Kolkata. “We will launch a state-wide movement if they are not released immediately.”

In response, Odisha Police officials stated that the individuals in question failed to furnish valid documents verifying their citizenship or legal residence in India. “Our checks revealed discrepancies and lack of proper documentation. The detentions are in accordance with the law,” a senior Jharsuguda district police officer said.

The controversy has escalated political tensions between the two states, with the TMC accusing the Odisha government of indulging in divisive politics, and Odisha officials maintaining that their actions are driven purely by legal procedures and security concerns.

This incident comes amid growing concerns over migrant labor welfare and regional tensions, especially with a steady flow of workers between West Bengal and Odisha for industrial and construction work.

As political tempers rise, calls for a neutral investigation and dialogue between the two states are also gaining momentum from civil society and rights groups.